North Korea's Threatening Relationship With the U.S
North Korea has held an on-off relationship with the United States for many decades. Currently, the two countries are in a state of diplomatic tension and distrust. Both countries have created hostile rhetoric and made bellicose statements regarding the other’s actions and intentions. The United States has consistently opposed North Korea’s nuclear development, military strength, and cyber capabilities. As a result of this animosity and increasing strategic power, North Korea has repeatedly been accused of attempting to target the United States with military action and nuclear strikes.
What Capacity Does North Korea Have To Strike The US?
North Korea has separately developed the capacity to operate intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and cruise missiles within its arsenal. The North Korean government has also extensively proven its nuclear capabilities, which would involve using some type of warhead on the missiles mentioned above. Although it is difficult for foreign governments to precisely measure the nuclear weapon power of the North Korean military, many western military and government experts agree that North Korea has enough nuclear material and warheads to damage a region of the United States in the event of a strike.
Where Would North Korea Strike In The US?
It is difficult to definitively say which targets North Korea would select when it comes to a nuclear strike on United States soil. However, a look at the potential targets leads analysts to suggest a few potential places. US-based military bases, particularly those bases in the Pacific regions, are the most likely targets, as these bases are in closer communication with the North Korean military. US coastal cities may also be vulnerable, such as Honolulu and San Diego, as well as Los Angeles. In the event of a strike, North Korea would likely select targets from a geopolitical standpoint as well, selecting targets that will cause the most harm, interfere with communications, impact economic output and strike fear into the population.
Impact of Any Such Offensive Moves
North Korea is aware of the estimated number of casualties that could occur in the wake of a nuclear strike against the United States, and currently, the United Nations has treaties in place to prevent such large-scale destruction from occurring. Any offensive attacks from the North Korean military against the United States, particularly a nuclear attack, will undoubtedly face swift retaliation from the United States and its allies. Whether the attack is a success or not, the retaliatory strike(s) will still result in immense casualties and damage.
Role of Foreign Intervention
As aforementioned, the United Nations has established protocols and treaties to prevent wide-scale destruction from occurring. These treaties also illegally prohibit North Korea from using nuclear force against any foreign government. Additionally, foreign nations have consistently tried to calm the bellicose rhetoric between North Korea and the United States. Through sanctions, summits, and the use of diplomatic channels, other countries have attempted to de-escalate the tensions between the countries.
What Can The US Do To Increase Security?
The United States has done, and still does, much to strengthen its security in response to the North Korean threats. The United States has allocated additional troops to the Pacific states, with a large presence in South Korea and Japan. The United States has also worked on strengthening and improving defensive weaponry, such as the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), which is a system designed to shoot down any incoming ballistic missiles. The United States has also increased its cyber security as there is fear that North Korea could attempt cyber terrorism – threatening US infrastructure, communication, or financial systems.
Role of The South Korean Government
The South Korean government has been an active partner with the United States in the development of its defences and diplomacy between the two countries. South Korea has utilised its still relatively friendly relationship with North Korea to encourage a peaceful resolution to the current tensions. Both South and North Korea agreed to engage in official talks and agreed to cease “all hostile acts” in 2018. Although these talks have been tense and slow-moving, both Koreas are continuing to work together in the hopes of peaceful resolutions.
Impact On The Global Economy
The global economy is based on interconnectedness, and any action of North Korea towards the United States, or vice versa, could have devastating results. Any hostility between the two countries would send out shockwaves across the world markets, with merchandise, transportation, and finance all potentially being impacted. In the event of an attack there could be a destabilisation of the US economy, resulting in a decrease of confidence in its currency and capital, and decreased global trading activities.
Security Implications Of Alliances With Countries Supporting North Korea
The United States has built many strategic alliances with foreign countries, such as South Korea, Japan, Australia, and European countries. These alliances offer increased security for the countries involved, limiting the prospects for further escalations or violations of international law. As North Korea maintains close ties with China and Russia, it is important for the United States and its allies to ensure that both China and Russia do not become involved in any military activities that involve North Korea and the United States.
International Efforts On The Korean Peninsula
The international community has been working together to encourage North Korea to come to the negotiation table, to reduce tensions and ultimately make the Korean peninsula a safer place. Multiple international summits have been held, with representatives of several countries attending and discussing the current issues facing North and South Korea. These summits have allowed countries to share perspectives and to determine a peaceful way forward. For example, the United States and other nations have reached an agreement whereby North Korea will no longer operate nuclear tests, and will also stop producing nuclear weapons.
What Does The Future Hold?
The future of North Korea and its relationship with the United States is difficult to predict. The United States continues to apply sanctions and international pressures to North Korea in the hope that it will facilitate a diplomatic resolution, but it is difficult to say when the situation will fully de-escalate. Although there is currently increased tension between the two countries, it is hopeful that the international community can successfully work together to ensure a peaceful resolution is formed for the Korean peninsula.
